German-born pianist Wilhelm Backhaus (1884–1969) started studying the piano at age 4 with his mother and by 1891, was studying at the Leipzig Conservatory. His private study with Eugen d’Albert in Frankfort, a student of Franz Liszt, was crowned by

Swiss pianist Alfred Cortot (1877¬-1962) began his piano study at the Paris Conservatoire at age 9, taking the premier prix in 1896. He started his concert career in 1897. His love for the music of Wagner led him to Bayreuth,

“Classical Crossover” is a relatively new term in music meant to describe musicians who are proficient in classical music but who also perform in other styles and genres. In the baroque and classical era improvisational skills were expected of a

Vladimir Sofronitsky (1901-1961) was a Russian pianist who made his name not playing the classical and romantic composers but in his performances of the works of Alexander Scriabin (1872-1915), his wife’s late father. Born in St. Petersburg, he studied at

Three legendary 20th century harpists stand out. British harpist Sidonie Goossens’s remarkable career extended just short of seven decades. A member of the BBC Symphony Orchestra from its founding in 1930 until 1980, she was known for her brilliant playing

In the ancient system of Chinese astrology, the Lord Buddha summoned all the animals to wish him goodbye before he departed from Earth. Alas, only twelve animals came to bid him farewell. So he rewarded them by naming a year

It is with great sadness that we report the passing of Estonian composer Veljo Tormis. Regarded as one of the most prolific and most innovative choral composers of the 20th century, he ceaselessly kept alive the memories of ancient peoples

British pianist Solomon Cutner (1902-1988) was known professionally solely by his first name, ‘Solomon.’ He was born in London and his performing abilities were recognized by age 7. He gave his first concerts at age 10 and then, sensibly, retired